Message from the President
The third year of neighbors running Tenaya Park is almost at an end. This is what is currently happening, and in the works. In the past few years, we have planted 21 trees in the park, and most ofthat was by donation (4 old trees were removed due to disease). Fig vines have been planted along many block walls and some fences.
Repairs have been made to drainage and sprinkler systems. Signs have been added with our phone number and web site. As much as possible of the routine repairs have been made by Vern Grant and other volunteers, in order to cut down costs. For example, it was costing $255 to change an overhead light bulb; that cost is now about $25, which is the cost of the bulb, with a volunteer doing thework.
Our finances should improve slightly next year, since we have paid nearlyall required funds into the operating reserve fund mandated by the county,and will now be able to use those funds for the park. A list of this years expenses is attached for your information.
A board meeting was held on Jan 17, 2010. A copy of the minutes of that meeting will soon be posted at our website, Tenayapark.blogspot.com . Future board meetings are scheduled for the first Wednesday of each quarter, which for 2010 will be April 7, July 7, October 6, and January 5, 2011. Copies of the minutes of those meetings will be posted on our website shortly after each meeting. Financial reports detailing monies expended for park maintenance and County oversight will be posted on the website periodically throughout the year.
A general meeting, open to all residents, will be held at the park on Saturday, April 3, at 9:00 am. Topics will be open to your wishes, but will include the future use, level of maintenance, and improvements you envision for Tenaya park and an election will be held to fill vacancies on the governing board. If you are interested in being a board member, please contact Vern Grant, at vgapp@comcast.net. \
We are working on better communication between the board and the 143 property owners . As much as possible will be put on line, so please visit our website and sign up to get updates as they occur. I hope you are pleased with the look of the park. Any suggestions you have will be welcome at the general meeting on April 3, at 9 am.See you there, Vern Grant
Hotline
We have a 24/7 hotline for neighbors to call if repairs or maintenance are needed and to report other problems at the Park. The hotline number is 228-3543.
Website
The Tenaya Park Homeowners Association, Inc. needs a webmaster to help us put our financials, minutes, pictures and other items on the website. If you have computer experience and the time, please email Cynthia at cdowning@pesc.com.
Do We Have Your Email?
If you aren’t on the Tenaya Park Email distribution list, please send your Email address to cdowning@pesc.com. Your Email address will be used exclusively for Tenaya Park communications.
Is Your Last Name Correct on our Mailing List?
Please check the name on your mailing label. If we have a wrong last name, the Post Office might not deliver our neighborhood communications. Call or Email Cynthia Downing with any corrections.
Thank You
Special thanks to Robin Stevens and Robin Duke for coordinating the Christmas Eve luminaries again this year. The neighborhood was lit up on Christmas Eve and it looked spectacular!
Garage/Bake Sale
We are planning another Garage/Bake Sale probably in late April or early May. The last two were successful financially and people in attendance commented on the sense of community the gatherings generated. We are in need of volunteers for that effort, contact Carla Grant, 435-1417.
4th of July
Dear Tenaya Park Neighbors: Brad and I have enjoyed organizing the 4th of July Celebration at the Park for several years now. We also have appreciated the help and monetary donations some of the neighbors have offered over the years. These neighborly contributions have been of value in making the event a success for those who have attended.
However, we feel it is time for us to terminate our involvement in this event. We do hope that someone, or a group of volunteers, will continue with the tradition of the annual Independence Day Celebration. If you have any questions regarding what this entails, please contact me. I’d be more than happy to assist someone interested, in getting started with new leadership. - Robin Stevens, 449-8126
Annexation Proposal
At our last annual membership meeting, we discussed the fact that the City wanted to annex the Tenaya Park neighborhood and had offered several incentives to induce us to do so. A committee was appointed to negotiate our agreement with the City to spell out and vest the services and benefits promised by the City. A group of Sunnyside area property owners, however, filed a lawsuit challenging the validity of City annexations since the City has a different property tax rate than that fixed by the County. Pending annexations were therefore put on hold until that issue is resolved. If you have any questions, call Jim McKelvey at 439-7956.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Tenaya Estates Board Meeting Minutes - January 17, 2010
TENAYA ESTATES, INC., MINUTES OF BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING
A meeting of the Tenaya Estates Board of Directors was held on Sunday, January 17, 2010, at 3:00 p.m. at the Downing residence.
Board members present:
Vern Grant
Cynthia Downing
Paul Heath
Jim McKelvey
Janice Normart
Brad Stevens
Board member absent:
Jeff Earl
A quorum of the Board of Directors was called to order at 3:05 p.m. with Vern Grant, President, presiding.
The minutes of February 21, 2009, Board meeting were not available for approval. They will be Emailed to the Board at a later date.
Paul Heath presented the financial report. The County paid a bill of approximately $2,300 to the City of Fresno for water by mistake. Now that we know how much water costs, we can adjust watering accordingly to control costs. We now have approximately $15,000 in reserves. Hopefully, we can negotiate with the County so we don’t have to continue reserving money to increase reserves rather than spending it on the Park.
We have $1,101.12 in the bank. Neighbors have been donating to the Park. Donations covered the cost of the additional trees. California Growing Concern has given an estimate of $375 for trimming trees. It was moved, seconded, and unanimously approved to hire California Growing Concern to trim the trees.
A seat in the playground is broken. Repairs cost $204.10. It was moved and seconded and carried to purchase the seat to repair the seat.
The location of the new trees was then discussed. Ms. Normart stated that trees are supposed to be planted around the perimeter of the Park. She also stated that USA should be called to insure that no underground services are disrupted. Discussion ensued about the location of the new trees. Janice Normart opposed the location of all three new redwoods trees that were added to the east side of the Park. Janice Normart made a motion to move the three new redwood trees. The motion died for lack of a second, primarily because the Park doesn’t have enough money to pay for moving them.
The question of making decisions about new trees was discussed. It was agreed that individual Board members are not authorized to make these types of decisionsalone. It was moved, seconded, and passed that the Board will make all major decisions about the Park including placement of new trees, new benches and tables, and new equipment. The President is authorized to make routine repairs without bringing these issues to the Board for approval.
The Board discussed whether to have a garage and bake sale to raise money for the Park. It was agreed to schedule one if Carla Grant is willing to coordinate it.
The Board discussed Fourth of July festivities. Robin Stevens doesn’t want to continue coordinating this annual event. The Board agreed to solicit volunteers.
Most of the routine maintenance in the Park is being done by Vern Grant. The Park reimburses Vern for equipment and supplies but doesn’t pay for labor. If the Park had to pay for labor, routine maintenance would cost a lot more.
Jim McKelvey will collect information for the Tenaya Park newsletter. Janice Normart and Brad Stevens will be in charge of distribution.
Board meetings were scheduled for the year. The Board will meet April 7, July 7, October 6, and January 5, 2011.
It was moved, seconded, and carried to reimburse Cynthia Downing for the cost of web hosting.
The question of organized team practices at the Park was discussed. It was suggested that organized teams should be required to register, perhaps waiving liability and committing to pay for any damage done to the Park during use. It was noted that children who grew up at the Park but no longer lived in the neighborhood were coming back and using the Park. It was suggested that if registration is required, clear rules that apply to all circumstances would be needed. For example, if a Tenaya Park neighbor brings in a team of kids, would the neighbor be required to register? How would the registration process be policed fairly and impartially on a regular basis? Do we want the Park to become known as an unfriendly place? Do neighbors want to keep the Park a public park or do they prefer it to be a private park? The discussion was tabled to the next meeting.
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Cynthia Downing, Secretary
A meeting of the Tenaya Estates Board of Directors was held on Sunday, January 17, 2010, at 3:00 p.m. at the Downing residence.
Board members present:
Vern Grant
Cynthia Downing
Paul Heath
Jim McKelvey
Janice Normart
Brad Stevens
Board member absent:
Jeff Earl
A quorum of the Board of Directors was called to order at 3:05 p.m. with Vern Grant, President, presiding.
The minutes of February 21, 2009, Board meeting were not available for approval. They will be Emailed to the Board at a later date.
Paul Heath presented the financial report. The County paid a bill of approximately $2,300 to the City of Fresno for water by mistake. Now that we know how much water costs, we can adjust watering accordingly to control costs. We now have approximately $15,000 in reserves. Hopefully, we can negotiate with the County so we don’t have to continue reserving money to increase reserves rather than spending it on the Park.
We have $1,101.12 in the bank. Neighbors have been donating to the Park. Donations covered the cost of the additional trees. California Growing Concern has given an estimate of $375 for trimming trees. It was moved, seconded, and unanimously approved to hire California Growing Concern to trim the trees.
A seat in the playground is broken. Repairs cost $204.10. It was moved and seconded and carried to purchase the seat to repair the seat.
The location of the new trees was then discussed. Ms. Normart stated that trees are supposed to be planted around the perimeter of the Park. She also stated that USA should be called to insure that no underground services are disrupted. Discussion ensued about the location of the new trees. Janice Normart opposed the location of all three new redwoods trees that were added to the east side of the Park. Janice Normart made a motion to move the three new redwood trees. The motion died for lack of a second, primarily because the Park doesn’t have enough money to pay for moving them.
The question of making decisions about new trees was discussed. It was agreed that individual Board members are not authorized to make these types of decisionsalone. It was moved, seconded, and passed that the Board will make all major decisions about the Park including placement of new trees, new benches and tables, and new equipment. The President is authorized to make routine repairs without bringing these issues to the Board for approval.
The Board discussed whether to have a garage and bake sale to raise money for the Park. It was agreed to schedule one if Carla Grant is willing to coordinate it.
The Board discussed Fourth of July festivities. Robin Stevens doesn’t want to continue coordinating this annual event. The Board agreed to solicit volunteers.
Most of the routine maintenance in the Park is being done by Vern Grant. The Park reimburses Vern for equipment and supplies but doesn’t pay for labor. If the Park had to pay for labor, routine maintenance would cost a lot more.
Jim McKelvey will collect information for the Tenaya Park newsletter. Janice Normart and Brad Stevens will be in charge of distribution.
Board meetings were scheduled for the year. The Board will meet April 7, July 7, October 6, and January 5, 2011.
It was moved, seconded, and carried to reimburse Cynthia Downing for the cost of web hosting.
The question of organized team practices at the Park was discussed. It was suggested that organized teams should be required to register, perhaps waiving liability and committing to pay for any damage done to the Park during use. It was noted that children who grew up at the Park but no longer lived in the neighborhood were coming back and using the Park. It was suggested that if registration is required, clear rules that apply to all circumstances would be needed. For example, if a Tenaya Park neighbor brings in a team of kids, would the neighbor be required to register? How would the registration process be policed fairly and impartially on a regular basis? Do we want the Park to become known as an unfriendly place? Do neighbors want to keep the Park a public park or do they prefer it to be a private park? The discussion was tabled to the next meeting.
There being no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted, Cynthia Downing, Secretary
Friday, January 15, 2010
New Trees!
We have planted 6 new trees that were donated to the park for a total of $672.00. Since taking over the park we have planted 21 new trees. Thanks to everyone who donated!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Tenaya Bake and Garage Sale
We raised $1350.00 from the May 16th Bake and Garage Sale. A special thanks to every one who contributed and made this another successful sale. All proceeds from the sale will go towards Park Maintenance.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Neighborhood Meeting: Saturday, April 25, at 10:00 a.m.
Should We Annex to the City of Fresno?
A neighborhood meeting is scheduled on Saturday, April 25, at 10:00 a.m. at Tenaya Park.
The primary purpose of this meeting is to discuss the possibility of annexing to the City of Fresno. We will also give a brief update on Park operations and finances.
Several months ago, the City asked Tenaya Estates to consider annexing. The Board met on February 21 to discuss the issue. There were questions about the process and how annexation would affect the neighborhood. The Board didn’t reach any conclusions. Instead, the Board agreed that property owners should be involved in the information gathering and decision-making process. Jim McKelvey will work with the City to get more information and answers to questions for the meeting on April 25.
Here’s what we know so far:
· The City will not force us to annex. A majority of property owners would need to vote in favor of annexation.
· After annexation, we would be able to vote for Fresno City Mayor and a City Council representative plus a representative on the County Board of Supervisors. Currently, we can only vote for the representative onthe Board of Supervisors.
· The City would provide fire protection. Although we’re currently in the North Central Fire District, the District now contracts with the City for fire protection. After annexing, our area’s fire rating might improve which would mean lower fire insurance premiums for property owners.
· The City would provide police protection. Currently, the County Sheriff polices our area.
· The City would provide solid waste disposal including an annual curbside pickup. Fresno County recently ended its annual curbside program. City trash pickup is likely to be less expensive than the current private hauler. However, State law would require us to stay with the private hauler for 5 years after annexation.
· The City would provide municipal services like street sweeping and graffiti removal which currently aren’t available from the County.
· The Tenaya Estates Board expressed a strong desire to keep local control of Park maintenance. Currently, Tenaya Estates contracts with Fresno County to maintain the Park. We select and pay our own vendors; decide when and how much to water; and are able to make repairs quickly when needed. As a result, the Park looks beautiful and lots of people use and enjoy it. The Board does not want to risk returning the Park to management by government bureaucracy.
· The County keeps about 30% of the Park’s annual budget to cover administration and audit fees, even though we now do all the work. These fees might not apply in the City. We could then use these funds for capital improvements to the lights, sprinklers, and the playground.
· The City might be willing to cover general liability insurance costs of about $1,500 per year. The City might also agree to cover the costs of water and power. We aren’t sure of the net impact of annexation. Solid waste costs will go down. Premiums for fire insurance might go down. The annual Park assessment might change. Property taxes might increase by about $100
A neighborhood meeting is scheduled on Saturday, April 25, at 10:00 a.m. at Tenaya Park.
The primary purpose of this meeting is to discuss the possibility of annexing to the City of Fresno. We will also give a brief update on Park operations and finances.
Several months ago, the City asked Tenaya Estates to consider annexing. The Board met on February 21 to discuss the issue. There were questions about the process and how annexation would affect the neighborhood. The Board didn’t reach any conclusions. Instead, the Board agreed that property owners should be involved in the information gathering and decision-making process. Jim McKelvey will work with the City to get more information and answers to questions for the meeting on April 25.
Here’s what we know so far:
· The City will not force us to annex. A majority of property owners would need to vote in favor of annexation.
· After annexation, we would be able to vote for Fresno City Mayor and a City Council representative plus a representative on the County Board of Supervisors. Currently, we can only vote for the representative onthe Board of Supervisors.
· The City would provide fire protection. Although we’re currently in the North Central Fire District, the District now contracts with the City for fire protection. After annexing, our area’s fire rating might improve which would mean lower fire insurance premiums for property owners.
· The City would provide police protection. Currently, the County Sheriff polices our area.
· The City would provide solid waste disposal including an annual curbside pickup. Fresno County recently ended its annual curbside program. City trash pickup is likely to be less expensive than the current private hauler. However, State law would require us to stay with the private hauler for 5 years after annexation.
· The City would provide municipal services like street sweeping and graffiti removal which currently aren’t available from the County.
· The Tenaya Estates Board expressed a strong desire to keep local control of Park maintenance. Currently, Tenaya Estates contracts with Fresno County to maintain the Park. We select and pay our own vendors; decide when and how much to water; and are able to make repairs quickly when needed. As a result, the Park looks beautiful and lots of people use and enjoy it. The Board does not want to risk returning the Park to management by government bureaucracy.
· The County keeps about 30% of the Park’s annual budget to cover administration and audit fees, even though we now do all the work. These fees might not apply in the City. We could then use these funds for capital improvements to the lights, sprinklers, and the playground.
· The City might be willing to cover general liability insurance costs of about $1,500 per year. The City might also agree to cover the costs of water and power. We aren’t sure of the net impact of annexation. Solid waste costs will go down. Premiums for fire insurance might go down. The annual Park assessment might change. Property taxes might increase by about $100
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Tenaya Park Homeowner's Association Garage and Bake Sale!
Thanks very much to all for your effort and participation in the recent bake and garage sale at Tenaya Park. We raised $1741.00 from sales and donations.
The funds are being used to pay for the recent removal of the large oak tree, sprinkler repairs and recent replacement of four overhead lights. If nothing else breaks between now and the first of the year we will end up with about $500.00 in our bank account.
Thanks to all for a successful fund raiser.
Vern and Carla Grant
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Tenaya Park Homeowners Meeting Saturday, June 12, 2008
A Tenaya Park homeowners meeting will be held on Saturday, June 12, at 10:00 a.m. at the Park near the basketball court. At this meeting, we will provide an update on the Park and a report on finances.
It's also time for the annual election of Board members. The current Board is:
Vern Grant - President
Paul Heath - Treasurer
Cynthia Downing - Secretary
Jeff Earl
Jim McKelvey
Janice Normart
Brad Stevens
Hope to see you there.
It's also time for the annual election of Board members. The current Board is:
Vern Grant - President
Paul Heath - Treasurer
Cynthia Downing - Secretary
Jeff Earl
Jim McKelvey
Janice Normart
Brad Stevens
Hope to see you there.
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